When we talk about derby matches in Goa there is nothing bigger than a clash between traditional rivals Dempo SC and Salgaocar FC.
Dempo Sports Club will host Salgaocar at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Fatorda, in a Round 21 match of the Airtel I-League on Wednesday.
Dempo and Salgaocar had a dream run after the resumption of the I-league. Salgaocar has won four successive matches and if they continue with this terrific run, they can have a decent shot at the title. Not to be left behind, Dempo has also won the three I-League matches they have played after the league resumed in February. This has earned them a mid-table finish and if they sustain the momentum they can hope for a top five finish.
Dempo coach Arthur Papas looks to extend his winning streak and exhibits confidence in his side. “I am optimistic that being a derby match the eleven that steps onto the field will come out with the desire to secure all three points.”
He will be missing the services of Simon Colosimo and Clifford Miranda who are out due to suspension. “It is unfortunate we have a few concerns regarding suspended and injured players as both teams have been in very good form.”
On being asked about his rivals he said, “We have full respect for Salgaocar and their qualities, they are very well organised, disciplined and robust team who collectively are hard to break down, and also possess match winners in the attack half.”
Tolgay and Dudu who have joined Dempo and Salgaocar respectively during the league break have proved their mettle and have scored consistently. Dudu has scored four goals in four matches played by his team and Tolgay has scored three goals in as many matches. With the teams evenly matched in all departments of the game, the spectators can expect an exciting match.
The match will kick off at 17.00 IST (12.30 CET / 11.30 GMT) on March 19 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Fatorda.